Back in 2001, R&B music group Jagged Edge asked an important question: Where the party at? It feels like a question we always ask each other — in one form or another — as we go through life celebrating moments and milestones. Dreamforce is no different, since for many Trailblazers, it’s a week to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones for the first time, and have a ton of fun.
So while some want nothing more than to hole up in a hotel bathrobe and order room service, you and a large contingent of your fellow attendees will be getting down on the dance floor Elaine Benes-style. (Let’s see those videos! #DF19) Here are our best party tips along with a few favorite parties.
1. Plan your party situation
I know, sometimes spontaneous partying is best. But because there are so many parties and gatherings at Dreamforce, you’ll want to narrow your options down, especially if there’s something you’re really keen to attend. There are several trusty party listings available. Salesforce.org has a great one that features their partner activities. Anaplan makes a comprehensive one. Salesforce Ben always has hot tips, too. Whether you’re looking for a chill networking breakfast, or to drop it low, there’s something for everyone.
2. Get your RSVPs in now
Most parties have an RSVP/registration option. If it does, it’s wise to register sooner rather than later. You’ll save yourself the time and effort of registering at the door, or worse getting turned away due to the party reaching maximum capacity.
3. Leave your stuff at the hotel
Take a moment to leave your snazzy Dreamforce backpack at the hotel or a similar safe location. Some venues — including Dreamfest — will have security checks and will not permit larger bags, or provide bag storage. Leaving your stuff behind allows you peace of mind for worry-free fun.
4. Getting to a party early is not a faux pas
Last year, there were 170,000 registered attendees. That means parties are going to get crowded. Dreamforce veterans recommend getting to your highest-priority parties early. You’ll be able to beat the crowds — and it will get packed — in grabbing drinks, snagging seats, and nabbing the best nibbles. Even if you have RSVP’d, coming late might mean waiting in long lines for the venue to empty out.
Now, while all the gatherings are going to be fun, we’ve picked a few we wanted to spotlight.
Tuesday, November 19
Champions & Trailblazer kick-off party
Time: 5 p.m. and a daily happy hour from 5–9 p.m.
Join us at the Einstein Analytics Station at the 111 Minna Gallery to meet and mingle with Trailblazers and peers in a relaxing environment. We have both indoor and outdoor seating and no registration is necessary! Just bring your Dreamforce badge and join the fun.
Customer Success Welcome to Dreamforce reception
Time: 5–6 p.m.
Celebrate the first day of Dreamforce in the Customer Success Lodge with your fellow Trailblazers. “There’s No Place Like Customer Success” is this year’s theme and this is your chance to join us for appetizers, beer and wine, boozy snow cones, and experiences that will appeal to your brain and your heart. So grab your courage, a friend or two (winged monkeys optional) and head to the Customer Success Lodge located at City View at Metreon.
Live recording of Marketing Trends
Time: 5:30–7 p.m.
Head over to the Pied Piper Bar in the Palace Hotel for a live recording of Marketing Trends, the #1 podcast for chief marketing officers (CMOs) and marketing leaders! During this live recording, Chief Content Officer at Mission and host of Marketing Trends Ian Faison will be joined by a special guest to discuss how they’re thinking about the future of marketing.
The Salesforce.org Speakeasy
Time: 8–11 p.m.
Party like Gatsby and join Salesforce.org for a Roaring Twenties speakeasy-themed party. Enjoy drinks, a full dessert bar, and themed entertainment as you party the night away. And to gild the lily, all ticket proceeds go to GLIDE, a San Francisco-based organization working to break the cycles of poverty and marginalization.
Wednesday, November 20
Dreamfest and Benefit for UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals
Time: 6:30–10:30 p.m.
Believe the rumors; we wouldn’t tell you sweet little lies. Legendary rock band Fleetwood Mac headlines Dreamfest this year. One of the most influential bands of the 1970s, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, and selling over 120 million records worldwide, Fleetwood Mac’s music has touched the lives of countless millions globally. Read our best Dreamfest tips, and then go your own way to Oracle Park for a dreamy night.
Thursday, November 21
Dreamforce Equality Festival
Time: 6:30–9:30 p.m.
Join us at the top of the Salesforce Tower as we host our first-ever Equality Festival brought to you by Deloitte Digital — honoring each of our 12 Equality Groups and their communities. Watch a showcase from each equality groups, while enjoying light appetizers featuring authentic cuisine from our different communities. Get ready to network, celebrate, and groove to the live DJ at this sure-fire memorable event.
Into the Blue: The B2B Marketing Bash
Time: 7 p.m.–midnight
Together with Sercante and Qualified, we are throwing THE party for B2B marketers at Dreamforce! Join hundreds of B2B marketers to celebrate a week of transformation, inspiration, innovation, and community. Come make a splash with popular live band Mustache Harbor (known for their yacht rock), a flowing premium bar featuring themed drinks, and late-night snacks complete with an oyster bar. We hope to sea you there!
App Bash 2019 – SOLD OUT
Time: 8:30 p.m.
Calling all party animals! The AppExchange team invites you to an enchanting experience at Dreamforce. You can expect fun drinks, yummy bites, networking, and lots of dancing. Join us at the coolest forest disco ever! Register now, as this party is by invitation only. Please note that your invitation is non-transferable and that ins and outs will not be allowed. This party is a hot ticket and will be sold out, so we recommend you come early.
[Sorry, App Bash is now sold out, you party animals!]
